2000 Ford Focus ZX3 2.0 Zetec
Summary:
Play it safe and get an import instead!
Faults:
Rear brake drums squeak (finally fixed, after a forth try).
Missing elbow connector in the A/C caused water leaks on the floor.
Intermittent noises from the suspension.
Gear knob, and rear hatch.
5 recalls on this particular model and still counting.
General Comments:
The American Focus line is not as good as the European one. Typical, below-average Ford quality. I think I have a lemon and I am trying to return mine. I got burned and won't buy another Ford.
Ricart Ford Service in Columbus, OH, is the worst service I have ever experienced. The car has been in and out of the dealership 13 different times since I got it. I am angry and determined to get my money back!!!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 25th January, 2001
22nd Apr 2001, 22:27
Sounds Like more of the same problems for other people. Two things First...
1) I would consider myself "highly skilled", mechanically.
2) The Focus has been a GREAT vehicle, minus the problems I will mention below.
AC leaking all over the carpets. Dealer had to remove the dash to get at the condenser, They left scratches in a few "pry" places, Failed to mount all Pieces back, and did not properly torque the bolts. (Yes, I checked!)
Rear Brakes Squeak (groan) while moving slowly and applied.
I have tried to look at this problem; however, the rear wheels will not come off! Dropped car off at the dealer for a "safety check". (I asked them to rotate the tires as they were checking the brakes) 2 hours later I called them and inquired as to the status... said they "haven't gotten to it yet, and don't know if it will be ready today"..Yea, right! I think they meant to say "we can't get the rear wheels off, and will need to spend more time trying than Ford will pay us for, so come get it!"...
The Left Blinker comes on at random!
I have diagnosed it as being Physical, as opposed to Electrical. The switch in the column is being contacted by the weight of the signal arm. This is a safety concern for others on the road, and will be dropping it off soon.
Finally... I use the key to unlock the car sometimes because the transmitter needs to be right next to the door to work!...who designed the range on this thing?? (Or are they using unsecured RF frequency that can be easily cloned???)